Blogs

A writer-editor by trade, Netherlands native Edward Bok delved into a bit of everything: He was a Pulitzer Prize-winning author with a handful of published books, an openhanded philanthropist, an advocate for sex education, an environmental and public-health activist, and a lover of architecture. His last project, the Singing Tower at Bok Tower Gardens, and final resting place (Bok is buried at the base of the tower) happens to be located in sleepy Lake Wales. Bok’s love for the carillon bells resounds from the 205-foot neo-Gothic tower each afternoon, with concerts played by exclusively appointed carillonneurs. (There’ve only been three since the tower was built.) Today’s playlist highlights seasonal favorites, and the gardens are situated only about an hour’s drive from Orlando. If you’ve never been before, it’s a great excuse for a holiday outing. – Aimee Vitek(1 p.m. and 3 p.m. at Bok Tower Gardens, 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales, 863-676-1408, boktowergardens.org, $12-$18)